Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision condition that affects millions of children worldwide. In recent years, the use of atropine eye drops has gained attention as an effective method for slowing down the progression of myopia in children. In today’s article, Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic explores how they work and why they have become a promising treatment for managing childhood myopia.
When administered as eye drops, atropine dilates the pupil and temporarily relaxes the eye’s focusing mechanism. This dilation allows the eye to receive more peripheral light and may help reduce the stimulus for elongation, which is one of the primary causes of myopia progression. Essentially, atropine helps slow down the growth of the eyeball, which is a common factor in myopia development.
Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of atropine eye drops in slowing the progression of myopia in children. While the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, atropine has been associated with a significant reduction in myopia progression. The rate of progression can vary from one child to another, but generally, it is slower in children treated with atropine than those without treatment.
If you are considering atropine eye drops for your children, keep the following in mind:
If you’re looking for an optometrist, turn to Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic! Our experienced and dedicated team of eye care professionals is ready to safeguard your child’s eye health. Call us today at (425) 771-8472 (Lynwood, WA) or (425) 485-0430 (Bothell, WA) to schedule a consultation. You can also fill out our contact form on our website. We also serve the residents of Shoreline, WA.